Meet a Committee Member: Mary Rizzo

On which committee do you serve?
Legal and Finance.
What do you do for a living?
Nonprofit management (aka intellectual do-goodery)
How did you get involved with the food co-op?
I moved to the neighborhood less than two years ago with a commitment to becoming involved in some way. I attended a PSCA meeting, at which the co-op organizers presented. Having written about co-ops historically and dreamed for years of being involved with the creation of one, I had to get involved.
Why do you want a food co-op in South Philly?
We're pretty lucky in South Philly with the variety of food that exists in the area--from the Italian Market to the Asian grocery stores. But a co-op to me is much more than a place to buy food. It's about forging community. Back in the 1970s, people thought co-ops would eliminate capitalism. They definitely overestimated their influence, but they had a vision of a less consumerist, more connective lifestyle that is extremely appealing to me and that more people should be aware of.
Why should people join a food co-op?
To get involved in their neighborhood through one of the most basic and powerful human activities--eating!
What is your favorite meal to cook and why?
My cooking exploits occur in phases. While I was in college, I baked and decorated cakes like a madwoman. A couple years ago, I started making bread and was determined to cook my way through Rose Levy Beranbaum's Bread Bible--I've stalled, unfortunately. Lately, I've been doing quick (pesco)vegetarian meals, like asian salmon burgers with slaw or brussel sprout salad with dried cranberries and toasted walnuts (if you want the recipe it's at: http://eatingreading.wordpress.com/brussel-sprout-salad-recipe/ ). But, truly, with so much amazing food to eat in Philadelphia, it's hard to justify cooking..